Musical InstrumentsChordophone-Lyre-plucked19th centuryLyre is a chordophone-lyre-plucked of probably Sudanese origin created in 19th century using wood, hide, gut, tortoise shell, lizard skin measuring H. +/- 23 in. (+/- 58.4 cm); W. 8 in. (20.3 cm); D. 4 in… — now part of the Musical Instruments collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Wood, hide, gut, tortoise shell, lizard skin |
| Dimensions | H. +/- 23 in. (+/- 58.4 cm); W. 8 in. (20.3 cm); D. 4 in. (10.2 cm) |
| Classification | Chordophone-Lyre-plucked |
| Department | Musical Instruments |
| Credit Line | Gift of Lillian Caplin, The Center for Musical Antiquities, 2002 |
| Date | 19th century |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the probably Sudanese culture. The estimated date range is 1800 – 1899.
Geography
Origin: Sudan?. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Lyre?
Lyre is housed in the Musical Instruments department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Lyre created?
Lyre dates to 19th century.
What material is Lyre made from?
Lyre is crafted from wood, hide, gut, tortoise shell, lizard skin.
Where does Lyre originate?
Lyre originates from Sudan? (probably Sudanese culture).
Is Lyre in the public domain?
Lyre is not in the public domain; rights and reproduction restrictions may apply.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026